What does the term ‘nuclear proliferation’ refer to?

The term ‘nuclear proliferation’ specifically refers to the spread of nuclear weapons and technology to non-Nuclear Weapon States. This concept encompasses the concern that countries that do not currently possess nuclear weapons might acquire them, which can pose significant challenges to global security and stability. Proliferation can also involve the transfer of nuclear knowledge and materials that could enable these states to develop their own nuclear capabilities. This issue is central to international agreements and treaties aimed at controlling and preventing the spread of nuclear weapons, such as the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT).

While the other options address related topics within the nuclear context, they do not capture the true essence of what nuclear proliferation entails. For instance, the reduction of nuclear weapon stockpiles is part of global disarmament efforts, but it does not define proliferation. Similarly, managing existing nuclear technologies and the increase of nuclear power plants focus on the utilization of nuclear energy rather than the spread of weapons technology. Thus, understanding proliferation is vital for ensuring that nuclear capabilities remain limited to those states that are recognized as Nuclear Weapon States under established international agreements.